Selecting your first surfboard is an exciting rite of passage for any aspiring surfer. At Shapers Club, we understand the importance of this decision and are here to guide you through the essential criteria to ensure you start out on the right wave.

1. UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SURFBOARDS

First of all, familiarize yourself with the main types of boards available:

Longboards : Perfect for beginners, thanks to their large size which offers stability, buoyancy and easy rowing.

Foamboards (foam boards) : Ideal for first sessions, they are safe and easy to catch waves.

Mid-lengths : A compromise between longboards and shortboards, offering stability and manoeuvrability for improving surfers.

2. SIZE AND VOLUME: THE KEYS TO SELECTION

  • Size : In general, the longer the board, the easier it is to catch waves. A 7- to 9-foot board is often recommended for beginners.
  • Volume : The board's volume, expressed in liters, indicates its buoyancy. Higher volume means better buoyancy, which is crucial for beginners. Use an online volume calculator to find the ideal volume for your weight and skill level.

3. WIDTH AND THICKNESS: FOR GREATER STABILITY

  • Width : A wider board offers more stability, which is essential when learning to stand up.
  • Thickness : Like volume, thickness contributes to buoyancy. A thick board helps carry the surfer through the water.

4. MATERIAL: FOAM OR RESIN?

  • Foam boards : The number-one choice for beginners, due to their safety and affordability.
  • Resin boards : They offer a more authentic surfing experience but are generally recommended for surfers with a little experience.

5. BOARD SHAPE: THE IMPORTANCE OF DESIGN

The board's design influences its behavior on the water. For beginners, look for a board with a nose large (the front of the board) to facilitate the take-off and a tail large (the back of the board) for stability.

6. EXPERT ADVICE AND CUSTOMIZATION

Never underestimate the importance of professional advice. At Shapers Club, our experts are on hand to help you choose the perfect board, adapted to your height, weight and level, and even to customize it according to your preferences. 

Ready to catch your first wave? Don't wait any longer to start your adventure on the waves. At Shapers Club, we're proud to support you every step of the way. Contact the Shapers Club team today for personalized advice or to explore our selection of boards ideal for beginners. Together, let's find the board that will launch your passion for surfing on the best of waves.